Amortization

Learn what amortization means in finance and loans.

Definition

Amortization is the process of gradually paying off a debt over time through scheduled payments. Each payment covers interest and principal.

Example

For a $10,000 loan at 5% interest over 5 years, you pay fixed monthly installments gradually reducing the principal.

Calculation

Amortization=Total PaymentPrincipal
(Monthly Payment×n) −Principal
Example: For a $10,000 loan at 5% APR over 3 years:
Monthly Payment $299.71, n = 36 months
Total Payment $10,789.56
Amortization (Interest) $789.56
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